Stop working as a sex worker
Have you ever asked yourself how long you want to work as a sex worker? Maybe you see it only as a temporary job and have other plans for later. Maybe you have no idea what you want. Maybe your personal situation is so complicated that you see no alternatives. Often you have more options than you think. A realistic outlook and a good plan may enable you to take small steps to achieving your dreams.
“I've been working in the erotic industry for a while but want to look for another job. I have no idea where I can find a different job. They keep telling me to make a résumé, but I can't. What am I supposed to put in it? I have no idea.”
Timely planning
If you want to stop your sex work, you will have to think about how to go about it. What are the financial consequences? What's going to change in your life?
- Would you like to look for other work or would you rather start studying again?
- Are you entitled to financial support?
- Or do you want to return to your country of origin?
Quitting sex work raises a lot of questions. The answer depends on your personal situation. You will need to find out your options before you stop your current occupation. At least you will be well prepared to start something new when the time comes.
I want another job
Finding work in Flanders is not that easy. You may get discouraged because you don't meet the job requirements. You have little or no experience, do not speak enough Dutch and do not possess the right diploma. If you have a foreign diploma, it’s well worth checking whether your certificate is recognised here.
“I don't make enough money. I can't pay my rent and I'm in debt. I have never had another job and don't know what else I can do. I don't speak Dutch. Do you need to speak Dutch to work as a cleaner? I want a different job as soon as possible.”
How can we help you?
The first step
- We will help you with your VDAB registration (Flemish employment agency).
- We help you write a CV (curriculum vitae or resumé.
- We help you write a good cover letter.
- We look for suitable vacancies together.
- We'll find out if you should/can go back to study.
- Do you need to learn Dutch? We will assess your options.
Where to find suitable vacancies?
The VDAB website is a good place to start. However, not all vacancies are put online. You should use your network or send out spontaneous applications. Facebook is also a useful tool when looking for a job.
If you have the right profile, we can put you in touch with the VDAB and the ABVV Horval Trade Union. We exercise the greatest discretion when contacting these organisations, with respect for professional secrecy and will never take any action without your approval.
Do you want someone to accompany you to your first interview? A Violett counsellor can come with you.
Can you claim social rights?
You may have more rights than you think. You may qualify for a living wage or some other form of social assistance. We work together with your local OCMW to find out what you are entitled to. We exercise the greatest discretion when contacting these organisations, with respect for professional secrecy, and will never take any action without your approval.
You don’t speak Dutch?
If you don't speak Dutch, we recommend that you start learning the language in good time.
All jobs in Flanders require at least a basic level of Dutch. It significantly increases your chances on the labour market. Even if your Dutch is not perfect, people will appreciate your efforts.
Would you like to practice Dutch outside the classroom? Several organisations in Flanders can put you in touch with Dutch-speaking residents. Even if you do not yet possess a Belgian residence permit, you can take Dutch lessons. Are you interested? Please contact a Violett counsellor. They can put you in touch with the organisations in your place of residence.
You want more information?
2000 Antwerp
Currently we only work by appointment. Call 03 293 95 91.
Monday14.00 - 16.00Tuesday/Wednesday10.00 - 12.0018.00 - 20.00Thursday/Friday10.00 - 12.00
For general questions:
Monday09.00 - 17.00Tuesday09.00 - 17.00Wednesday09.00 - 17.00Thursday09.00 - 17.00Friday09.00 - 17.00
9000 Gent
Currently we only work by appointment. Call 09 233 47 67.
Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday11.00 - 13.00
For general help and social assistance:
Monday/Tuesday13.00 - 17.00Wednesday/Thursday13.00 - 17.00Friday10.00 - 14.00
3500 Hasselt
Currently we only work by appointment. Call 011 33 30 58.
Monday10.00 - 12.00Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday/
For general questions and social assistance:
By phone or for an appointment